Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger cut short his press conference following Wednesday’s 5-1 win over West Ham “to do some work” on bringing in new signings.

Arsenal scored four goals in 12 second-half minutes to thrash the Hammers at Emirates Stadium, with Wenger pleased with how his players responded after going behind to a Jack Collison goal.

“We got a good response,” he told reporters.

“West Ham were dangerous in the first half and from set-pieces. In the second half we created chance after chance.

“I thought it was an interesting test [at 1-0]. I couldn’t predict we would score five, it was vital to equalise before half-time.

“It was a repetition of the game at West Ham when we were 1-0 down. Everybody can score against everybody.

“I never felt that the players didn’t know how important it is. I was worried they were sometimes a bit inhibited.

“[Lukas] Podolski was outstanding. He has an unbelievable shot, the keeper had no chance. It was new for us, we scored from a corner!

“I still believe [the left] is his best position.”

West Ham midfielder Mohamed Diame is believed to be on Wenger’s shopping list, while the likes of Barcelona forward David Villa and Lyon playmaker Yoann Gourcuff continue to be linked with moves to Emirates Stadium.

And when asked about his progress in the transfer market, the Frenchman added: “No [I have nothing to tell you]. That is why I have to shorten the press conference, because I have to do some work!”

Reports in Spain this week have suggested Villa has asked Barcelona to be allowed to leave Camp Nou this month.

Bookmakers Sky Bet make Arsenal favourites to sign Villa this month in their David Villa Next Club market, ahead of AC Milan.